London Otters win first ConnectSport award

We are delighted to have been chosen as first recipient of a new monthly award aimed at showing how sport can strengthen communities.

Debbie Weekes-Bernard, Deputy Mayor of London for Social Integration, told ConnectSport: “We are interested at looking at using sport to tackle social isolation, to improve mental health, to create a healthier and more engaged city, but also to create some of those links and connections between people from very different backgrounds.

The London Otters was established as a club to try to break down some of the barriers that prevent LGBTQ+ people getting involved in sport. Every week, our members come together to row, regardless of age, gender, or sexuality - we are immensely proud of their commitment and the community spirit they have fostered over the years; and we are humbled by the recognition from the Mayor of London office.